Pelvic Organ Prolapse

What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

The vagina and pelvic floor musculature support the pelvic organs such as the bladder, uterus, and rectum. When this support is weakened or damaged, these organs protrude into the vagina. When the bladder prolapses this is called a cystocele. When the rectum prolapses it is called a rectocele.

What are the Symptoms of Prolapse?

The prolapse of these organs can cause minimal symptoms or can be quite bothersome. Stress incontinence, urgency or frequent urination, pelvic pain or pressure, difficulty emptying the bladder, painful intercourse, and frequent UTIs can result.

This information was provided by the Urology Care Foundation on UrologyHealth.org as of September 2013.

How is Pelvic Organ Prolapse Treated?

Fortunately there are many successful treatments for pelvic organ prolapse. Pelvic floor muscle training (including kegel exercises) can help for mild cases. In some cases, estrogen replacement can help protect and strengthen the weakened tissues. Pessaries are soft removable silicone devices that can be used to support the pelvic organs in the vagina. Surgery can be performed to correct the prolapse and can be done through the vagina or abdomen. The specific technique is tailored to each patient’s specific condition and in some cases a graft may be used to help support the weakened tissues.

Who can I Talk to About my Prolapse?

Dr. Tamra Lewis is board certified in urology as well as Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS). She specializes in surgical and nonsurgical techniques to treat female incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. Contact CUC to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lewis.